Thyroid cartilage

Thyroid cartilage - Definition

It is a hyaline cartilage that resembles a shield and is posteriorly incomplete. The structure is also known by other names like Cartilago thyroidea (Latin) and Cartilage thyroïde (French).

Thyroid cartilage - Location

It can be found in the laryngeal region.

Thyroid cartilage - Anatomy and Appearance

It consists of two large, flat plates known as "Laminae" which converge at the anterior midline to form the “Adam’s apple.” Two projections from the thyroid cartilage, its superior and inferior horns, protrude from the posterior edge of each lamina.

This structure, like the other cartilages in the laryngeal region, grow much faster in males after puberty.

Thyroid cartilage - Function

The epiglottis, an elastic cartilage structure, is attached to the inner surface of the thyroid cartilage at the midline. It provides attachment for many laryngeal muscles and ventral strap muscles of the neck.